The 2015 Aston Martin DBS represents the pinnacle of naturally aspirated grand tourers, a machine that marries brute force with bespoke luxury. This is not merely a car; it is a rolling sculpture from Gaydon, designed to deliver an experience that is simultaneously civilized and ferocious. Under the hood lies a tuned version of Aston’s legendary 6.0-liter V12, a powerplant that emits a mechanical symphony rarely heard in today’s turbocharged world. For the enthusiast, the DBS stands as a final, glorious hurrah for an era of naturally aspirated madness.
The Heart of the Beast: Performance and Engineering
At the core of the 2015 DBS is the AM11 6.0-liter V12 engine, a unit that Aston Martin meticulously handcrafted at their facility in Cologne, Germany. This powerhouse generates an impressive 510 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, channeled to the rear wheels via a smooth seven-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission. While these numbers are competitive, the true magic lies in the delivery; the engine pulls linearly and eagerly, providing a rush of power that feels immediate and endless. The chassis, shared with the DB9, features a bonded aluminum chassis known as the VH platform, providing a rigid foundation that transforms into a supple yet responsive ride when paired with the adaptive damping system.
Handling Dynamics and Braking
Despite its grand tourer demeanor, the DBS is remarkably agile. The adaptive dampers adjust in milliseconds, damping out road imperfections at speed while remaining firm during spirited cornering. The steering is weighty and precise, offering direct feedback that connects the driver to the tarmac. When the mood shifts, the DBS transitions from a comfortable cruiser to a thrilling sports car, eager to carve through bends. For enhanced safety and performance, the 2015 model introduced optional carbon ceramic brakes, providing immense stopping power and fade resistance that instills confidence on both canyon roads and highways.
Design and Aerodynamics
The exterior of the 2015 Aston Martin DBS is a masterclass in aggressive elegance. The redesigned front grille, inspired by the One-77, gives the car a wider, more menacing stance, while the LED daytime running lights add a modern touch to the classic Aston Martin cues. The fluid lines flow seamlessly from the front bumper to the rear diffuser, creating a low drag coefficient that aids both efficiency and high-speed stability. The optional power rear spoiler deploys automatically at speed, pressing the car firmly onto the road for enhanced grip and a sharper visual profile.
Interior Craftsmanship and Technology
Step inside, and the DBS reveals its true nature as a luxurious coupe. The cabin is a testament to British craftsmanship, featuring Connolly leather upholstery, meticulously polished wood veneers, and hand-stitched details that demand attention. The driver-centric cockpit wraps the pilot in supportive sports seats, perfectly bolstering the body during aggressive maneuvers. Modern technology is integrated thoughtfully, with a high-resolution infotainment screen and a premium Bang & Olufsen stereo system that transforms the cabin into a private concert hall without drowning out the mechanical soundtrack of the V12.
Hand-stitched leather interiors
Bespoke color and wood trim options
Advanced navigation and connectivity
Bang & Olufsen premium audio
Carbon fiber racing seats
